IGN’s Top Switch 2 Games

The launch of the Switch 2 brought with it a wave of excitement, but for true fans, the real measure of the new console lies in the quality of the games it offers. Over the past year, we have delved into the new landscape and compiled a list of Nintendo exclusives that truly shine, focusing on those titles that stand out with an 8 or higher review score. These are the must-play experiences that define the Nintendo experience, whether you are playing on the original Switch or the next-gen system.

While the library of games available for the Switch 2 is vast, we decided to narrow the focus to Nintendo’s first-party offerings. These are the titles that showcase Nintendo’s unmatched ability to create world-class, memorable adventures and experiences, proving that innovation and joy still reign supreme in the gaming world.

At the pinnacle of this list is Donkey Kong Bananza, which earned a perfect 10 out of 10 for being a true masterpiece. This title is a brilliant successor to the beloved Super Mario Odyssey, proving that building a 3D platformer around Donkey Kong was the ultimate creative choice. Critics laud its satisfying movement and dynamic abilities, calling it a truly groundbreaking adventure.

Of course, no feature on the Switch 2 is complete without revisiting the legends. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, now enhanced for the Switch 2 Edition, remains a titan. Even with updates and additions, the core experience holds up, offering countless hours of exploration. Reviewers note that the Switch 2 Edition updates simply make it feel like this is the way the game was always meant to be played.

Similarly, the foundational epic, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, also receives high praise for its enduring quality. The Switch 2 Edition offers visual upgrades and faster loading times, providing a welcome enhancement to this sprawling masterpiece. It remains a towering achievement in Nintendo’s adventure series, offering unparalleled freedom and scale.

The action and competitive side of the Nintendo lineup are equally vibrant. Splatoon Raiders delivers an amazing action RPG experience packed with fantastic new powers and balanced, challenging battles. It successfully balances pacing and difficulty, ensuring that every encounter is a rewarding test of skill.

For those who enjoy racing and party games, Mario Kart World proves why Mario franchises endure. It manages to redefine the formula with exciting parkour mechanics and tight controls, maintaining the classic fun while introducing exhilarating new elements.

Further enriching the experience are unique creations like Pokemon Pokopia, an enjoyable building and town simulator that captures the charming personalities of its monsters perfectly. It strikes a healthy balance between freedom and suggestion, making it a treat for both creators and collectors alike.

The classics also made a triumphant return. Star Fox delivers a compelling remake, enhancing the visual experience and cutscenes to make nostalgia feel fresh and exciting. Meanwhile, games like Kirby Air Riders offer an absurd amount of fun in their multiplayer races and unique battle modes, appealing to both solo players and competitive enthusiasts.

Even some of the deep, narrative-driven experiences have been refined. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond nails the essential elements of a classic Prime game, delivering breathtaking art direction and tense exploration, standing as a testament to the enduring power of the Metroid name.

Finally, new expansions are proving their worth. The Super Mario Bros. Wonder + Meetup in Bellabel Park – Switch 2 Edition takes the original and adds a fantastic lineup of cooperative levels and endgame challenges. While some competitive elements could use more polish, the overall expansion is so inspired that it makes up for any minor shortcomings.

#Donkey Kong Bananza#Super Mario Odyssey#Switch 2#The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild#The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

By Sophia Harris